San Diego Plumbing and Pipelining

FAST 24/7 SERVICE AVAILABLE AT NO EXTRA CHARGE

(858) 333-7313

Abrasive Cleaner In San Diego

pipe with an abrasive cleaner

Abrasive Cleaning │Restore Old Cast Iron Pipes

Many homes built prior to 1970 have cast iron pipes that are vulnerable to rust and corrosion over time. Abrasive Cleaning is the preferred method of restoring old corroded cast iron pipes back to their original diameter without stressing the fragile cast pipes as other methods do which could cause fractures and possible eliminate the option of epoxy pipe lining restoration. Cleaning pipes isn’t a solution in and of itself. It is the first step in the pipe lining process.

Why You Might Need to Restore Your Old Cast Iron Pipes

Most conservative estimates on how long cast iron sewer pipes last fall between 40 and 75 years. That might seem like a long span, but it also puts a lot of older houses into the “needs repair” category. When the houses with cast iron pipes were built, plastic wasn’t available. Cast iron was the most durable material offered at the time. But even the most durable materials have a lifespan.

Once rust and corrosion occur, the metal develops pinholes and/or other breaks in the structure. Wastewater leaks out while rust and corrosion build-up on the inside of the pipe. This narrows the passageway for the wastewater, leading to backups and, potentially, a total system failure.

Signs You Need to Restore Your Cast Iron Pipes

Some homeowners don’t realize they have cast iron pipes until something goes wrong.
Some signs to look for include:

  • The toilet drains slowly after flushing
  • The drain in the sink empties slowly
  • The odor of sewer in your home
  • Frequent water leaks that might be caused by cracked or damaged pipes
  • Yellow or brown-colored water from your taps
  • Mold growth
  • Patches of excessive lawn growth
  • Indentations or sagging ground
  • Cracks in the foundation

How Abrasive Cleaning Works

abrasive brush for pipeAbrasive cleaning is the only way to safely remove the build-up of corrosion and rust inside the pipe. While this restores the pipe to its original diameter, it doesn’t address the damage to the pipe’s surface. Holes in the pipe allow wastewater to escape into the environment.

During abrasive cleaning, technicians use a propelled abrasive brush at high speed to remove the build-up from the interior of the pipe.

This process is, in effect, sanding the interior of the pipe. After the application, they will view the inside of the pipe with a sewer camera to ensure the surface is completely clean. The cleaning process leaves behind a smooth, even surface. This surface is perfect for applying the pipe lining material. The abrasive cleaning inside the pipe helps restore it to nearly its original diameter. Once the lining has cured, you’ll have a new pipe that is strong, durable, and damage-free!

Contact San Diego Plumbing and Pipelining today for cost-effective solutions for all of your piping needs.

Call Today (855) ANY-PIPE or (855) 269-7473

Or fill in this form to get a free estimate
  • This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

PHCC Logo - Plumbing Heating Cooling Contractors National Association